Decision analysis : determining the most appropriate drilling method for production drilling in underground mining

The mining industry contains many factors with a high degree of uncertainty. Therefore, there is a need for decision analysis. The production drill process is an initial process in underground mining, thus it is important that the most appropriate drilling method is used for specific mining operations. The current study provides examples of important variables that can be used in the decision analysis of the given decision problem. Drill methods included in the decision analysis are hydraulic top-hammer, pneumatic, and hydraulic down-the-hole hammers. Monte Carlo simulations are used as decision analysis method and tornado diagrams are used to determine how large effect the variables have on the results given the variation in each variable. The Monte Carlo simulations are based on a hypothetical case. It is challenging to analyze only the drilling process because the results of this process influence other processes in the mine. Thus, a comprehensive decision model that includes several processes of the mining operation would be of value to the decision maker. The presented calculations focus on cost per ton in terms of direct and indirect costs of drilling. Examples of safety and environmental criteria are given, for a possible extension of the analysis